The Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, has charged Nigerian troops to strictly uphold human rights and prioritise the protection of civilians while carrying out military operations across the country.
Speaking during a lecture at the Army War College Nigeria in Abuja, the army chief emphasised that respect for human rights and adherence to established rules of engagement are essential to operational success and national stability.
Shaibu stressed that soldiers must remain disciplined and professional at all times, noting that protecting civilians is not just a moral obligation but also a strategic necessity in modern warfare. According to him, when troops respect human rights, it helps build public trust, which in turn improves intelligence gathering and strengthens overall military effectiveness.
He further urged commanders at all levels to ensure that their personnel operate within the bounds of international humanitarian law, warning that any deviation could undermine the credibility of the armed forces and hinder ongoing security operations.
The COAS explained that his command philosophy is focused on transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, and combat-ready force, capable of addressing the country’s evolving security challenges while maintaining ethical standards.
The directive comes at a time when Nigeria continues to battle insurgency, banditry, and other security threats, particularly in the North-East and North-West regions. Analysts say the emphasis on human rights reflects growing efforts by the military to balance aggressive counter-terrorism operations with the need to protect innocent civilians.
Shaibu also reminded troops that their conduct directly impacts how the military is perceived by the public, urging them to act with integrity, restraint, and a strong sense of responsibility.
His message reinforces the Nigerian Army’s commitment to professionalism and accountability, as it continues operations aimed at restoring peace and stability across the country.
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